How To Wear Boots Of EVERY Height

It’s that time of year again! Yep, we’ve officially broken out all our boots and don’t plan to slip out of them until April — but as our morning-dressing routine has proven, that’s a task easier said than done.

With endless options for boots that cover a little or a lot of skin, there’s a different set of styling tricks for every pair. Luckily, we’re here to give you a leg up (yeah, we said it) on the process. Prepare to rock all the boots in your closet (and then some), as we debunk the mystery of what to wear with the shoe du jour — at every height.

The Bootie — While other, taller boots might be too overpowering in a shocking shade, a bootie is the ultimate way to add a pop of color. Go bold and choose a tone that contrasts with the rest of your outfit, like this tangerine number from the Karen Walker runway.

Photo: Courtesy of Karen Walker

The Bootie — This is the perfect shoe for raising the hemline and showing off your gams, while still being able to sport sturdy and warm winter footwear. P.S. Don’t forget your tights!

Photo: Courtesy of Pringle Of Scotland

The Above-The-Ankle — Admittedly, the middle of your calf can be an awkward place to fall. To prevent the look from being too rough and tough, try a silhouette that’s classically feminine. Take a cue from Billy Reid’s pencil skirts, nipped waists, and shrunken jackets.

Photo: Courtesy of Billy Farrell Agency

The Above-The-Ankle — Your cropped trousers and just-above-the-ankle boots were made for each other. The slim fit of the shoe still keeps the streamlined shape of the pant, making them an all-around season-less clothing item. Should your hem and your boot juuust miss each other, pair with cozy, knit socks, like the ones seen here at Band of Outsiders.

Photo: Courtesy of Band of Outsiders

The Knee-High — Toughen up your silky suits or matchy co-ords instantly with a knee-high boot. Simply tuck your pants neatly into the boot shaft, seen here at Gucci, for an instant edge.

Photo: Courtesy of Gucci

The Knee-High — A high-slit skirt elongates the line of your body, especially with a boot that hits just at the knee. Trust, this trick from the Nina Ricci runway is not only meant for models. Legs. For. Days.

Photo: Courtesy of Nina Ricci

The Above-The-Knee — We don’t often make a case for not wearing real bottoms, but this easy (and sexy) trick completely creates the look of a real, leathery pant leg. Follow in Altuzarra’s lead and pair your above-the-knee boot with a top that falls generously past your hips.

Photo: Courtesy of Altuzarra

The Above-The-Knee — Formal dressing in subzero temps is not as fun as your holiday shindigs should be. Don’t let the weather get you down. Winterize your evening wear with a boot that keeps you covered — without taking away from your chic ensemble.